On-the-Job Neck Injuries in Los Angeles

December 31, 2024

From bustling film sets to sprawling warehouses, Los Angeles is definitely a hub of diverse industries. Even so, it is certainly not immune to the risks of work-related incidents. Quite the contrary – on-the-job injuries are a significant concern across its various niches. 

Out of these, neck injuries are particularly distressing, as they can have a profound impact on a worker’s quality of life and career. If you or someone you know has sustained this type of injury, seeking counsel from a good neck injury attorney in Los Angeles is crucial – as is understanding the incidence and impact of work-related neck injuries for both employers and employees.

Incidence of Neck Injuries in Los Angeles Workplaces

While specific data on neck injuries in Los Angeles is limited and not readily available for perusal, we can infer past trends from broader statistics, by extrapolating relevant information from reputable sources including the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR):

• In 2019, Los Angeles County reported over 113,000 work-related injuries, marking a significant increase from previous years.
• In 2020, approximately 93,400 work-related injuries were reported in Los Angeles County, marking a ~17.4% decrease.
  • Note: The drop may be attributed to the COVID pandemic’s impact on workforce numbers and industrial activities.
• In 2020, neck injuries accounted for approximately 4.4% of all nonfatal injuries and illnesses involving days away from work, state-wide.
• In 2020, the incidence rate for all work-related injuries and illnesses in Los Angeles County was 3.4 per 100 full-time equivalent workers.
• In 2020, there were an estimated 14,430 cases of nonfatal neck injuries and illnesses involving days away from work in California.

While details are not specified in the source material, if we consider the nature of many occupations in the area and LA’s massive workforce, it’s reasonable to assume that a notable portion of these injuries likely occurred here.

What is the Most Common Neck Injury?

Neck injuries in the workplace can vary in severity and type. Some of the most common include:

• Whiplash: Often resulting from sudden movements, whiplash is prevalent among drivers and individuals involved in vehicular accidents. 
• Cervical Sprains and Strains: These work injuries occur due to overstretching or tearing of neck muscles and ligaments, commonly resulting from overexertion, improper lifting techniques, or repetitive motion.
• Herniated Cervical Discs: This condition arises when the cushioning discs between vertebrae rupture or bulge, pressing on nerves and causing pain. These injuries can occur from long-term wear and tear (repetitive stress motions) and/or slips and falls, car accidents, and many more. 
• Pinched Nerves: Compression of nerves in the neck can lead to pain radiating to the shoulders and arms, often caused by repetitive motions or poor posture.

Less Common Neck Injuries

While less frequent, certain neck injuries still occur in the workplace:

• Fractures: Severe trauma can lead to broken neck bones, posing significant risks of paralysis or death. Sadly, broken vertebral bodies in the neck can lead to mild to severe osteoarthritis in the long term. 
• Vascular Injuries: Damage to blood vessels in the neck, though rare, can result from penetrating injuries or severe blunt force. The most serious of these injuries woud be damage to the jugular vein.

Average Time Off Work for Neck Injuries

The recovery period for neck injuries varies based on severity:

• Minor Injuries: Sprains and strains may require a few days to a couple of weeks off work. However, under certain circumstances sprains and strains can cause chronic pain and become a chronic problem. These injuries are considered minor, and typically are but can result in a serious condition called “chronic sprain/strain syndrome”.
• Moderate Injuries: Conditions like whiplash or pinched nerves might necessitate several weeks of recovery. Again, whiplash can evolve into a chronic condition and can come with long-term issues like headaches, neck pain, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function. 
• Severe Injuries: Herniated discs or fractures can lead to extended absences, often several months, especially if surgery is involved. if surgery is needed. Spinal surgery comes with many risks, even some of them life-threatening. It is important for any injured worker to seek a 2nd or even 3rd opinion before having serious spinal surgery, such as a spinal fusion. 

Nationally, neck injuries result in an average of eight days away from work. However, one in three cases leads to absences of a month or more.

Implications for Employers and Employees

Understanding the prevalence and impact of neck injuries is vital for both employers and employees.

For Employers

Implementing comprehensive safety protocols and ergonomic assessments can reduce the risk of neck injuries, thereby minimizing lost productivity and workers’ compensation claims. Employers must also speak to employees for information and protocols that make them safer on the job. 

For Employees

Awareness of proper techniques and adherence to safety guidelines can prevent injuries, ensuring personal well-being and sustained employability. Employees must also recognize hazards on the job and immediately report them to management to help prevent increased injuries. 

Where can I find knowledgeable neck injury lawyers near me in Los Angeles?

Whether from a sudden fall on a construction site in Downtown LA, a repetitive strain in a Koreatown warehouse, or a vehicular accident while on the clock in Hollywood, neck injuries require immediate attention – and prompt legal action.

LA Accident Pros offers personalized representation for neck injury victims across LA. With in-depth knowledge of California’s workers’ compensation and personal injury laws, we’ll guide you through the complex process, ensuring you get the justice and recompense you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation and let’s give your case the best odds of bringing maximum compensation!